Administrators have immediately closed 13 sites across England and Scotland

A major timber firm with a distribution branch in West Bromwich has entered administration, leaving 561 people redundant.

National Timber Group, which employs 1,150 people across the UK, called in administrators earlier this week.

The group owns several different brands, including SV Timber, which has a branch at Nottingham’s Blenheim Industrial Estate, another in Alfreton, Derbyshire and a distribution centre in West Bromwich.

Michael Magnay, joint administrator, said: “National Timber Group is the UK’s leading timber supplier to joiners, housebuilders and contractors, operating under a number of widely recognised brands.

“As joint administrators, we have launched an accelerated sale process, and we encourage any interested parties to contact us as soon as possible.

“We are encouraged by the level of interest so far and we are hopeful of finding a buyer for all or parts of the group.

“Regrettably, the company’s liquidity challenges have led to a number of immediate redundancies. We are committed to supporting the affected employees through the redundancy process.

“We appreciate the support and patience of the highly skilled workforce in difficult circumstances, particularly at this time of year."

National Timber Group England, which was established in 1920, filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators on November 14.